Suicide Suspected In Death Of Former Cricketer; India Team Wears Black Bands
BRIDGETOWN, (IANS) – The Indian team wore black armbands in memory of former fast-bowler David Johnson, who passed away on June 20 at the age of 52, during the Super Eight match against Afghanistan in the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup at the Kensington Oval.
“Team India will wear black armbands today in memory of former India fast bowler David Johnson, who passed away on Thursday,” said a statement from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), shortly after the toss.
Johnson was a fast bowler who played two Tests for India in 1996, taking three wickets. In domestic cricket, he picked up 125 wickets for Karnataka in 39 first-class appearances. The highlight of Johnson’s career was clocking a speed of 157.8 km/h during a Test match against Australia.
Police suspect that 52-year-old Johnson committed suicide by jumping off the apartment building. However, an official statement is yet to come in this regard. According to police, Johnson fell from the fourth floor of the SLV Paradise Apartment. Although he was immediately rushed to the hospital, the cricketer succumbed to his injuries.
Police sources also revealed that the cricketer was not keeping well for some time and added that he is survived by a wife, a son and a daughter.
Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble posted, “Saddened to hear of the passing of my cricketing colleague David Johnson. Heartfelt condolences to his family. Gone too soon, ‘Benny’!”
“Deeply saddened by the passing of my former teammate, David Johnson. He was full of life and never gave up on the field. My thoughts are with his friends and family,” tweeted legendary India batter Sachin Tendulkar.
“Saddened by the passing away of David Johnson. May gods give strength to his family and loved ones,” wrote former India opener Gautam Gambhir wrote on X.
“Deepest condolences to the family and friends of our former Indian fast bowler David Johnson. His contributions to the game will always be remembered,” tweeted BCCI Secretary Jay Shah.
